Mock-Up showcased at IDEF 2017 Aselsan is working on a technology improvement programme (TEP) for an airborne electronically scanned array (AESA) radar for jet fighters.
While the company has a lot of experience working on several similar ground based systems it has never worked on an airborne example. A mock-up of an AESA demonstrator and technology system, known as the multi function radar (MFR) was publicly displayed for the first time, and is destined for the TF-X programme.
As part of a four-year contract, expected to be awarded to Aselsan by the end of the year, work on the new jet’s radar will get underway. There will be two MFR prototypes, one used by the scientists and engineers in the laboratory, and another for the test-bed aircraft.
In a joint venture with Bilkent University, Aselsan is building a Gallium Nitrode (GaN) facility for the important TR modules that are so important for the AESA radar. Due to its work with ground based radars like HISAR, the company is keen to launch its own GaN production line which it expects will commence operations in two years according to a Aselsan source.
The Turkish company is also developing two Synthetic Aperture Radars, one for UAVs and the other for manned helicopters.
Work started about a year ago on the m-SAR, which was on display and is being installed on tactical and rotor unmanned air vehicles as well as fixed wing aircraft and helicopters. Close by was the X-band SARPER which has been under development for two years now, and while too heavy for tactical UAVs it has been integrated on the TAI Anka.
